Vespa at 2014 Auto Expo

Piaggio will be unveiling two new scooters at the upcoming 2014 Auto expo, which include the Vespa S and the Vespa 946. The Vespa S, will be the third scooter offering for the Indian from the stables of the Italian manufacturer. The Vespa S is the sportier version of the VX and the major distinctive visual feature of the Vespa S is its 1970s-styled square headlights in contrast to the round one found on the standard Vespa and VX. To distinguish the scooter further, the mudguard on the scooter has been cut back further to reveal more of the front suspension and the 5-spoke alloys. Also the seat profile has been changed.

The instrument cluster has been re-designed to add to its retro charm and sports an analogue speedometer and fuel gauge, digital clock and different tell-tale lights. No changes have been made on the mechanical front and the Vespa S would be powered by the same engine as on the standard Vespa. The 125cc, 4-stroke, 3-valve engine produces 10.06PS @ 7,500rpm and a torque figure of 10.6Nm @ 6,000rpm and would be mated to a CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) automatic transmission. Piaggio hasn't revealed any details about the pricing of the Vespa S but expect it command a premium over the VX and hence it won't be cheap by any means.

The 946 has to be one of the most radical scooters to be ever put to production and without a shadow of doubt will also be among the most visually striking scooter to head to our shores. According to the manufacturer, its retro-futuristic design gives an indication to the styling cues of future generation Vespas and this means expect some few more stunning scooters in the near future. The major design highlights of the 946 is its floating saddle which is hinged on a cast aluminium support, full LED headlamp and taillight and LCD instrumentation cluster.

The Vespa 946 is offered in two engine options, a 125cc and 150cc mill respectively, both of which employ 3-valves and fuel injection. The single-cylinder 125cc mill has a power rating of 11.9PS and 10.3Nm of torque. The flagship 150cc engine pumps out 13.2PS of power and a torque figure of 12.6Nm. Piaggio has loaded the 946 with electronic goodies like disc brakes at the front and rear with ABS (anti-lock braking system) and ASR (anti-slip regulator) Traction Control, which, with the aid of electronic system, helps the rear tyre from slipping.

The body of the 946 is crafted from welded steel, but for the first time in Vespa’s history they have employed aluminium components in the frame and mudguard to make the scooter lighter and durable. It isn’t confirmed yet whether the Vespa 946 will be launched in our country but if it does get launched then it will among the most expensive scooter to be sold in India.